METHOD AND TOOL FOR CONTRACTING TUBULAR MEMBERS BY ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC FORMING BEFORE HYDROFORMING - A tubular preform is contracted in an electro-hydraulic forming operation. The tubular preform is wrapped with one or more coils of wire and placed in a chamber of an electro-hydraulic forming tool. The electro-hydraulic forming tool is discharged to form a compressed area on a portion of the tube. The tube is then placed in a hydroforming tool that expands the tubular preform to form a part.

2011-03-24

20110067468

Seal for Fluid Forming Tools - An electro-hydraulic forming tool for forming a sheet metal blank in a one-sided die has first and second rigid rings that engage opposite sides of a sheet metal blank. The rigid rings are contained within slots on a die portion and a hydraulic force applicator portion of the forming tool. The seals are either resiliently biased by an elastomeric member or inherently resiliently biased into contact with the blank.

2011-03-24

20110067469

T-FITTING MANUFACTURING METHOD AND TOOL - A punch for forming opposite ends of a copper tube into a T includes a tapered or shovel-nose such that the spacing between the ends of the opposed punches is reduced, thereby reducing the excess copper remaining in the T once formed. A method of forming the fitting employs the shovel-nose punches in a hydro-forming process to accommodate such results.

2011-03-24

20110067470

Method and Tool for Expanding Tubular Members by Electro-Hydraulic Forming - An electro-hydraulic forming tool having one or more electrodes for forming parts with sharp corners. The electrodes may be moved and sequentially discharged several times to form various areas of the tube. Alternatively, a plurality of electrodes may be provided that are provided within an insulating tube that defines a charge area opening. The insulating tube is moved to locate the charge area opening adjacent one of the electrodes to form spaced locations on a preform. In other embodiments, a filament wire is provided in a cartridge or supported by an insulative support.

2011-03-24

20110067471

Method and Apparatus for Creating Formed Elements Used to Make Wound Stents - A method for forming a wave form for a stent includes providing a length of a formable material from a supply of the formable material in a feeder along an axis in a first direction in between a first forming member and a second forming member. The second forming member is positioned closer to the feeder than the first forming member. The length is about the length of a substantially straight portion of the wave form. The method also includes moving the first forming member in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction to a position in contact with the formable material, and moving the second forming member in a third direction substantially opposite the second direction to wrap the formable material about a distal end of the first forming member.

2011-03-24

20110067472

Roll Former With Three-Dimensional Sweep Unit - An apparatus includes, in combination, a roll former with rolls configured to form a structural beam from sheet material, and a sweep unit for longitudinally sweeping a beam in any of vertical, horizontal, or combination directions. The sweep unit has a first pair of forming rolls positioned to engage first opposing sides of the structural beam and has a second pair of forming rolls positioned to engage second opposing sides of the structural beam. The sweep unit movably supports the first and second pairs of forming rolls so that any selected one of the forming rolls continuously engages an associated side of the structural beam while an associated one of the forming rolls opposing the selected one forming roll moves downstream and around the selected one forming roll. This provides a very stable beam-bending condition promoting dimensional stability during the sweeping process, and hence dimensional accuracy and repeatability.

2011-03-24

20110067473

Method of Forming Three-Dimensional Multi-Plane Beam - A method includes, in combination, a roll former with rolls configured to form a structural beam from sheet material, and a sweep unit for longitudinally sweeping a beam in any of vertical, horizontal, or combination directions. The sweep unit has a first pair of forming rolls positioned to engage first opposing sides of the structural beam and has a second pair of forming rolls positioned to engage second opposing sides of the structural beam. The sweep unit movably supports the first and second pairs of forming rolls so that any selected one of the forming rolls continuously engages an associated side of the structural beam while an associated one of the forming rolls opposing the selected one forming roll moves downstream and around the selected one forming roll. This provides a very stable beam-bending condition promoting dimensional stability during the sweeping process, and hence dimensional accuracy and repeatability.

2011-03-24

20110067474

MAGNESIUM HOT ROLLING APPARATUS - In a magnesium alloy hot rolling apparatus in which winders that are able to apply heat to and then maintain the temperature of a magnesium alloy sheet while this sheet is in a coiled state are installed on both entry and exit sides of a rolling mill, and in which the magnesium alloy sheet undergoes a sequential thickness reduction via a plurality of reverse rollings, the rolling mill is provided with working rollers and back-up rollers whose surface temperature can be heated to a particular fixed temperature and then maintained at this temperature. According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent any deterioration in the quality of a product which is caused by temperature variations during the hot rolling of the magnesium alloy sheet, and it is possible to improve the yield and increase productivity.

2011-03-24

20110067475

Process for Producing High-Alloy Seamless Tube - A starting material to be extruded made of a high alloy comprising, in mass %, Cr: 20 to 30% and Ni: more than 22% and 60% or less is heated to a temperature predetermined according to the contents of Mo and W and is subjected to a hot-extrusion process, the heating temperature T (° C.) satisfying a relationship of Formula (1), (2), or (3), which is expressed in terms of the average cross-sectional area A (mm

STEERING RACK MANUFACTURE - A die apparatus and method for performing a flashless forging operation to manufacture the toothed portion of a steering rack. The die apparatus includes first and second die members and at least one punch member, each having a forming surface shaped substantially as an obverse of a portion of the toothed portion. At least a portion of the forming surface of the first die member is shaped substantially as the obverse of the teeth of the rack. The first and second die members are moveable towards each other to a closed position, thereby partially forging the toothed portion from a blank placed in the die apparatus, and forming a substantially closed cavity defined by the forming surfaces. The punch member is adapted to move into the cavity once the die members are in the closed position, thereby completing the forging operation.

2011-03-24

20110067478

PRESS-IN ELEMENT, COMPONENT ASSEMBLY CONSISTING OF A PRESS-IN ELEMENT AND A SHEET METAL PART AND ALSO METHODS FOR THE MANUFACTURE AND ATTACHMENT OF A SELF-PIERCING PRESS-IN NUT - A self-piercing hollow press-in element, in particular a nut element for attachment to a sheet metal part, wherein the press-in element has a flange part of a larger diameter and a shaft part of a smaller diameter. The shaft part extends away from the flange part and has a circular piercing edge at its end face remote from the flange part. The side of the flange part facing the shaft part forms a sheet metal contact surface in ring shape and features providing security against rotation are provided at the shaft part which extend approximately from the level of the sheet metal contact surface over a part of the length of the shaft part along the latter. A ring-like recess is provided radially within the ring-shaped sheet metal contact surface in the flange part and excess material for the shaft part which arises during manufacture of the ribs providing security against rotation is located within the ring recess. Further designs of the press-in element and also of a component assembly and methods for the manufacture of the press-in element and of the component assembly are described.

2011-03-24

20110067479

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALIBRATING A ROTARY ABSOLUTE POSITION SENSOR - A system includes a rotary device, a rotary absolute position (RAP) sensor generating encoded pairs of voltage signals describing positional data of the rotary device, a host machine, and an algorithm. The algorithm calculates calibration parameters usable to determine an absolute position of the rotary device using the encoded pairs, and is adapted for linearly-mapping an ellipse defined by the encoded pairs to thereby calculate the calibration parameters. A method of calibrating the RAP sensor includes measuring the rotary position as encoded pairs of voltage signals, linearly-mapping an ellipse defined by the encoded pairs to thereby calculate the calibration parameters, and calculating an absolute position of the rotary device using the calibration parameters. The calibration parameters include a positive definite matrix (A) and a center point (q) of the ellipse. The voltage signals may include an encoded sine and cosine of a rotary angle of the rotary device.

2011-03-24

20110067480

METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR DETERMINING SAMPLE FLOW VOLUME - A method for determining a sample flow volume is disclosed herein. The method includes withdrawing the sample flow at a first and second flow rate from a gas flow, measuring a concentration of at least one gas component and measuring at least one of an airway pressure and flow. The method also includes generating first measurement results based on the concentration, generating second measurement results based on the at least one of the airway pressure and flow and setting a suitable point of comparison. The method further includes determining a first and second time delay between the point of comparison of the first and second measurement results of the first and second flow rate, providing information about the first and second sample flow rate and determining the sample volume based on differences between the first and second time delay. A corresponding arrangement is also provided.

2011-03-24

20110067481

EXHAUST GAS SENSOR - An exhaust gas sensor that simultaneously exhibits enhanced water soak resistance and functionality, that is multilayered and exposed to a space in an exhaust path. The exhaust gas sensor includes: an electrolyte layer, positioned between an exhaust electrode and an atmosphere electrode; an atmospheric layer formation layer formed toward the atmosphere electrode to form an atmospheric layer to which the atmosphere electrode is exposed; a porous diffusion resistance layer formed toward the exhaust electrode to control flow rate of an exhaust gas reaching the exhaust electrode; and a porous trap layer formed to cover the entire section exposed to the space in the exhaust path. The trap layer includes a first trap layer, which covers a region near a gas inlet/outlet section of the diffusion resistance layer, and a second trap layer, which covers another region that covered by the first trap layer. The first trap layer is thinner than the second trap layer.

DETECTION OF THE PRESENCE OR ABSENCE OF A GAS BUBBLE BY DYNAMIC SENSOR RESPONSE - A method for detecting the presence or absence of a gas bubble in an aqueous liquid is provided comprising providing a sensor positioned within a measuring chamber, wherein the sensor is configured to determine the concentration of a gaseous component dissolved in a liquid, the sensor comprising a sensitive region; setting a gas partial pressure at the sensor, wherein the gas partial pressure differs from an expected value of the gas partial pressure of the gaseous component of a liquid to be measured; exposing the sensor to the liquid to be measured; resting the liquid until standstill is attained; recording a signal from the sensor as a function of time until the signal becomes constant; and detecting the presence or absence of a gas bubble from the variation of the signal over time. The gas bubble, if present, is in at least partial contact with the sensitive region of the sensor.

2011-03-24

20110067484

SEMICONDUCTOR SENSOR AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A semiconductor sensor includes: a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of piezoelectric thin films layered on the semiconductor substrate, the plurality of piezoelectric thin films including at least a pair of the piezoelectric thin films layered above and below; a pair of electrodes that are formed at an interface of at least the pair of the piezoelectric thin films layered above and below and excite surface acoustic waves; a thin film directly under a lowest-layer piezoelectric film of the piezoelectric thin films; a metal thin film that is formed at an interface of the lowest-layer piezoelectric thin film and the thin film, and facilitate a growth of a ridge-and-valley portion on a surface of an uppermost-layer piezoelectric thin film of the piezoelectric thin films; and a sensitive film for molecular adsorption formed on at least the ridge-and-valley portion on the uppermost-layer piezoelectric thin film.

2011-03-24

20110067485

Integrity Test Method for Porous Filters - An improved method of testing the integrity of a porous filter is provided. The test method is an improvement over a gas-liquid diffusion test wherein the improvement comprises providing a conduit downstream of the filter and filling the conduit with a liquid, the conduit having a length to cross sectional area ratio selected to substantially resist diffusive flow of the gas through the liquid downstream of the filter material.

2011-03-24

20110067486

Leak Detection Apparatus - An apparatus and method for liquid leak detection includes a first and second flexible members each constructed of an electrically conductive material that is in a normally open circuit state. Also included is a liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall that is positioned adjacent to the first and second flexible members, the liquid permeable surrounding sidewall is constructed of a non electrically conductive material. Operationally, the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall becomes electrically conductive when a liquid is present in the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall, facilitating the first and second flexible members to move to a closed circuit state that results in a perceptible output. Additionally, included is a liquid permeable planar web reinforcing element that is oriented adjacent to the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall wherein the liquid permeable planar web reinforcing element is oppositely disposed of the first and second flexible members.

2011-03-24

20110067487

Method for testing the operability of a tank shutoff valve of a fuel tank system - A method for testing the operability of a tank shutoff valve of a fuel tank system which is controlled by valves includes performing defined triggering of the tank shutoff valve and simultaneous introduction of an overpressure or partial vacuum into the fuel tank system via a pressure source, and the operability of the tank shutoff valve is determined on the basis of a variable which characterizes the introduction of the overpressure or partial vacuum.

SAMPLE HOLDER AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A sample holder, such as a microscope slide, is provided in the form of a card-shaped substrate or plate, preferably for use in an analytical reader. The sample holder comprises at least one hole, preferably a plurality of holes, for receiving a sample to be analyzed. The at least one hole extends completely through the substrate and is sized such that the sample is held within the at least one hole by means of the surface tension of the sample against the force of gravity. Optionally the substrate comprises a first upper substrate and a second lower substrate that together embed a porous membrane. As a further option the sample holder comprises a first cover attached to the top side of the first upper substrate and/or a second cover attached to the bottom side of the second lower substrate. Moreover a method for using such a sample holder in an analytical reader is provided, comprising the steps of: filling the at least one hole of the sample holder with a sample and reagent mixture; inserting the sample holder in the analytical reader; and analyzing the sample and reagent mixture in the at least one hole of the sample holder with the analytical reader.

2011-03-24

20110067490

VOLUMETRIC MEASUREMENT - Disclosed is a method of determining a volume of liquid in a sample tube, comprising the steps of capturing an image of the sample tube, determining a first region of interest within the sample tube based upon pre-stored information concerning dimensional properties of the sample tube, scanning the first region of interest to detect the position of a meniscus indicative of an upper extent of the liquid, and using said meniscus position together with certain pre-stored properties of the sample tube to determine a volume of liquid in the tube, and outputting said volume. Also disclosed is an apparatus for performing the method.

2011-03-24

20110067491

ASSEMBLY STRUCTURE OF LIQUID LEVEL DETECTING APPARATUS AND LIQUID LEVEL DETECTING APPARATUS - An assembly structure of a liquid level detecting apparatus includes a sliding arm having a junction for electrically contacting a resistor and an arm holder attached to the sliding arm. The sliding arm moves according to a liquid level so that the junction slides on the resistor. The sliding arm includes a sliding portion extending in a direction from a base end portion of the sliding arm to the junction, and a pawl portion extending from the base end portion. The arm holder includes a slit into which the pawl portion is inserted and a face on which the sliding portion is mounted. The face is inclined at an angle with respect to an insertion direction of the pawl portion.

2011-03-24

20110067492

MEASURING DEVICE - A measuring device comprises a sensor module and an evaluation module mounted on the sensor module. The sensor module includes a first component having a first screw thread, and the evaluation module includes a second component having a second screw thread. The screw threads engage with one another by screwing; wherein the first or the second component has a slit, which essentially extends into the component in a plane perpendicular to the thread axis; and there are formed by the slit a first clamping limb and a second clamping limb of the component, which are separated from one another by the slit. On the component there is furthermore arranged an actuating element, which acts on the first clamping limb and the second clamping limb, and deflects the clamping limbs relative to one another, whereby the first screw thread and the second screw thread are clamped against one another and secured against rotation relative to one another.

2011-03-24

20110067493

Method for the automatic detection and identification of errors in a balancing machine - A method is disclosed for the automatic detection and identification of errors in a balancing machine during operation, in which a rotor provided with an unbalance is rotatably mounted in a vibratory bearing in the balancing machine and is set in rotation by a drive, the rotational frequency of the rotating rotor and the vibrations stimulated by the rotor are measured and measurement signals which comprise the measured values of the rotational frequency and the vibrations are generated and delivered to an evaluation computer. The evaluation calculation is based on mathematical models of the dynamic properties of the balancing machine which describe stimulations of the machine structure due to the unbalance, in particular in the balancing planes, and/or due to the rotor geometry and/or due to the bearing and/or possible damage to the bearing. Features such as vibration characteristics and/or process parameters are calculated by a signal-model-based method from the measurement signals, and discrepancies are established by comparing the calculated features with predetermined normal features of an error-free process.

MICROMACHINED ACCELEROMETER WITH MONOLITHIC ELECTRODES AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A capacitive accelerometer having one or more micromachined acceleration sensor assembly is disclosed. The acceleration sensor assembly comprises a spring-mass-support structure, a top cap and a bottom cap. The proof mass plate of the spring-mass-support structure has cutout spaces and is supported by a pair of branched torsional beams which are substantially located in the cutout spaces. The torsional axis of the proof mass plate is offset from the mass center in direction perpendicular to the proof mass plate. The acceleration sensor assembly further comprises multiple coplanar electrodes for differential capacitive sensing and electrostatic forcing. The capacitive accelerometer according to the present invention may comprise one, two or six micromachined acceleration sensor assemblies with electronic signal detection, conditioning and control circuits in different configurations and applications to detect and measure linear and angular accelerations. Methods to fabricate the micromachined acceleration sensor assembly are disclosed.

2011-03-24

20110067496

OBLIQUE FLAW DETECTION USING ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCERS - Ultrasonic transducers and methods for detecting oblique flaws in cylindrically-shaped objects using pulse-echo testing are provided. By mounting one or more transducers on a rotary tester for testing manufactured objects such as tubes and bars, offsetting each transducer horizontally from its position if it were to emit a beam that is perpendicular to the object's outer surface, and actuating the transducer so as to emit an angled beam, oblique surface flaws and internal flaws may be reliably detected without reducing inspection speed, significantly adding to transducer cross-talk, or requiring significant additional hardware or processing.

2011-03-24

20110067497

HIGH PRECISION ULTRASONIC CORROSION RATE MONITORING - The invention relates to very precisely measuring changes in thickness of pipe walls to determine corrosion rate prior to any significant corrosion loss. The thickness is determined by ultrasonic testing where many measurements of the wall thickness are taken at the same spot by a fixed sensor and errors associated with noise and temperature changes are substantially eliminated. A highly sensitive receiver converts each reflected pulse to waves that are averaged with other pulse measurements. The resulting average wave is analyzed so that each waveform is analyzed to identify the extrema and inflection points of each reflected pulse. The resulting analysis provides a far more accurate determination of the time between reflected pulses. As a result, a far more accurate picture of corrosion at the location of the wall of the pipe can be determined within weeks with a high degree of confidence.

2011-03-24

20110067498

ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS - An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus in accordance with the invention includes: an ultrasonic probe configured to transmit an ultrasonic wave to an object to be tested and receiving an ultrasonic wave from the object; an ultrasonic transmitter/receiver configured to provide a signal that causes the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave and signal-processing a signal received from the object by the ultrasonic probe; an ultrasonic image constructor configured to construct an ultrasonic image from the signal-processed received signal; an image display for displaying the ultrasonic image; a controller configured to control the ultrasonic transmitter/receiver, the ultrasonic image constructor and the image display to work properly; and a temperature sensor, provided on the ultrasonic probe, configured to sense the temperature of the ultrasonic probe and outputting the sensed temperature to the controller. The controller obtains the temperature variation rate of the ultrasonic probe from the temperature sensor, determines a usage state of the ultrasonic probe based on the obtained temperature variation rate, and controls the ultrasonic transmitter/receiver based on the determined usage state of the ultrasonic probe.

2011-03-24

20110067499

Method and Template for Producing a Tensile Test Coupon - A method and template enable the testing of fusion joints of plastic pipes to be conducted by a single operator in the field at the welding site by the efficient and precise extraction from the joints to be tested of a number of high quality tensile coupons. The coupons are tested to failure in a field-suitable, well controlled, self contained, tensile testing apparatus. A narrowing bow-tie-like pattern of the coupon ensures that the failure of the coupon in the tensile test will occur at the narrowest section of the coupon. The template can be visually aligned with the joint to ensure that it is the joint that will be tested.

2011-03-24

20110067157

Method and apparatus for Variable G force experience and creating immersive VR sensations - The present invention relates to variable low/zero gravity simulation systems. variable low/zero gravity condition is achieved by substantial immersion in a fluid environment (“buoyancy means”) and using power assist means/robotic displacement devices such as exoskeleton to help user's movement/gravity compensation and/or relief or change loads on the subject's torso and limbs that caused by the weight and shape of the “Buoyancy means”, so that user can experience the effect of the (variable) gravity environment being simulated, such as Zero gravity in which situation user could move effortlessly in a weightless environment. When combine with VR related technology, this can create vivid immersive simulations for extraterrestrial scenes and can be widely used for entertainment, game, training, healing and etc.

2011-03-24

20110067158

OPENING/CLOSING APPARATUS AND HELMET INCLUDING THE SAME - Provided is an opening/closing apparatus allowing a sun visor to be readily opened and closed with a helmet on as well as maintaining an opening/closing speed of the sun visor to be constant and a helmet including the same.

2011-03-24

20110067159

CHAPS FOR WADING AND WADER PROTECTION - Chaps style outerwear worn by fishermen, hunters and others while wearing waders, especially breathable-style fishing waders. Used to protect waders and the person wearing them from damage cause by briars, thorns, fishhooks, general wear-tear and abrasions. Formed of two elongated leg portions covering the legs from the ankle to the hips and made of tear, puncture, cut, and abrasion resistant materials.

2011-03-24

20110067160

Apparel Incorporating A Protective Element - An article of apparel may include may include a garment portion and at least one protective element. The garment portion and the protective element have a configuration that forms a gap, separation, or pleat structure through, for example, folding or overlapping of a textile element of the garment portion. The gap, separation, or pleat structure may permit the protective element to move independent of other portions of the apparel at the joint, thereby enhancing a range of movement of the individual and the overall comfort of the apparel.

2011-03-24

20110067161

Dining Bib - A dining bib comprising a table cover approximating an individual place mat for a dining position; a bib extension of said table cover; a trough formed between a rearward side of said table cover and a lower portion of said bib extension for accumulating food or liquid debris. The trough extends downward from an upper perimeter thereof, and said table cover, bib extension and trough are formed of a water repellant fabric into a single structure. In one embodiment a drawstring closure surrounds the trough to enable closing it. A bolster disposed around the perimeter of the table cover on the left, forward, and right sides thereof forms a basin of the table cover, bib extension, and bolster in combination.

2011-03-24

20110067162

Torso top outer garment - A cover up torso top outer garment provides increased coverage and support for women wearing bikini bras formed of right and left side front stretchable portions of an outer fabric and an inner fabric with an open-ended front zipper releasably securing the portions, and elastic material along the bottom edge of each portion to form gathers along each bottom edge. Each portion has an elongated neck edge, and an elongate arm edge, with an elongated adjustable neck strap connected to the neck and arm edges of each portion, and an elongated adjustable back strap connected to the neck and bottom edges of each portion.

2011-03-24

20110067163

Convertible Sleep Shell - A sleep shell is provided comprising a flexibly foldable sheet material having complementary engageable side enclosures enabled to surround at least a user's torso. The sheet material has aligned recessed neck openings to form a neck hole when folded and at least a pair of complementary fasteners engageable with one another and disposed substantially toward the top side of the sheet material. An arm opening is also provided disposed selectively between top and bottom of the sheet material. The shell can be used for sleeping or as a blanket and allows a user to become ambulatory while wearing it.

PROTECTIVE ATHLETIC GLOVE - A protective glove and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The glove includes a hand receiving portion that includes a metacarpal portion and a wrist portion. The hand receiving portion includes a dorsal side and a palm side. The glove further includes a plurality of protective elements attached to the dorsal side of the hand receiving portion. The plurality of protective elements including a first protective element that overlaps a second protective element. The first protective element includes a distal end that is attached to the dorsal side of the hand receiving portion and a proximal end that extends freely over the second protective element.

2011-03-24

20110067166

Protective Gloves - The present invention relates to medical gloves, as well as gloves that are used to protect a person's hand from harmful substances. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, protective gloves are provided that comprise four fingers and a thumb portion, wherein the thumb portion comprises a unique mark that visually differentiates the thumb portion from the four fingers. Alternatively, according to other embodiments of the present invention, the protective gloves comprise a small-finger portion, three additional fingers and a thumb portion, wherein the small-finger portion comprises a unique mark that visually differentiates the small-finger portion from the three additional fingers and the thumb portion.

2011-03-24

20110067167

SPORT GLOVE - A sport glove of the present invention is structured so that a section of the glove for the back of a hand is at least partially formed by a first stretchable material, a second stretchable material made of a mesh material is placed so as to cover a part of this first stretchable material, both ends of this second stretchable material and outer sides of the first stretchable material are sewed to the palm side so that the second stretchable material is free to the first stretchable material, and the first stretchable material has a higher ratio of expansion and contraction than that of the second stretchable material.

2011-03-24

20110067168

Cap with brim insert - There is disclosed an improved cap construction formed by a head portion for seatment on a user's head and a brim extending outwardly from the head portion. The brim is provided with an opening having a discrete geometric configuration, and an insert is provided having a geometric configuration with mates with the opening's geometric configuration. The insert may be formed of a plasticized tinted material to filter the sun's rays to the user's eyes. The insert may also be provided with indicia imprinted on the exterior surface thereby to provide a promotional function by the cap.

2011-03-24

20110067169

Attachable and detachable pocket cover - An attachable and detachable cover for a pocket having an inner area. The cover may include a first portion disposed external to the pocket, generally conforming to a contour of the pocket, and removably secured to the pocket. The first portion may include a decorative element. In addition, the decorative cover may include a second portion disposed within the inner area of the pocket. The second portion may cause the cover to be retained by the pocket. Further, the cover may include a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion.

2011-03-24

20110067170

Quick-Release Structure of a Toilet Cover Hinge - A quick-release structure of a toilet cover hinge includes a fixing bolt, a locking base, and a lid. To assemble, the present invention is coupled to a toilet cover. The fixing bolt is inserted into and engaged with a calabash-shaped engaging hole, and a stopping block is to press against the bolt head, which locks the toilet seat to the fixing bolt. To disassemble, the user places their fingers into arched notches of the locking base to pull the lid up and to disassemble the toilet cover for replacement or cleaning; the fixing bolt does not need to be unscrewed from the toilet bowl to remove the toilet seat. To reassemble, the locking base directly engages with the fixing bolt, which provides for a quick and convenient assembly and disassembly of the toilet seat.

2011-03-24

20110067171

Toilet bowl water suppression pad (stool cover walls cover - seat cover) - My invention relates to the toilet seat cover, toilet wall cover, stool cover, toilet bowl water suppression pad and toilet smell. It is disposable, biodegrable, affordable and enhances protection to toilet users. My invention will simultaneously allow toilet users to use either a regular toilet seat cover or a toilet seat cover in combination with my new invention which is not limited only to pads and liners. Not only will the shield allow you to sit on the toilet seat comfortably. It will also prevent water or any other liquid from splashing upwards preventing any other liquid from splashing any contact with the skin. At the same time, the bowl will be kept free of splashes as well. And 98 percent of the fecal smell is controlled by a high concentrate of natural plant and mild perfume.

2011-03-24

20110067172

Sanitary-ergonomic toilet seat lifter - A uniquely constructed toilet seat lifter designed to minimize damage to body parts, complicated machinery and expense associated with conventional toilet seat lifters includes a spindle and handle having precise dimensions allowing the handle to rotate about the spindle thereof, a base that is fixed to said spindle and mounted to a toilet seat. Accordingly, structures of the arm are in balance while the device is being used so as to minimize damage to the user. The device is designed to have only one moving part so as to minimize complication and expense to the individual.

2011-03-24

20110067173

Gate tube toilet water saver - An improved proportioning device inserted in line between a combination tank bowl supply valve and a overflow vent aperture of conventional aspirated water closets to reduce water consumption, the proportioning device assembly include: (

DRAIN ASSEMBLY, DRAIN BODY FOR USE IN SUCH AN ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR BUILDING-IN OF A DRAIN - Methods and devices for drain assemblies including those for building into a floor. Such drain assemblies including a drain body which can be built into the floor and which has at the top an inlet zone with a periphery, a peripheral flange with an upper surface, extending substantially in a horizontal plane from this periphery, a water-sealing layer arranged adheringly on the upper surface of the peripheral flange, a sealing mat with the form of a frame with an inner periphery fitting around the periphery, wherein a portion of the sealing mat overlaps at least the outer periphery of the water-sealing layer, and wherein the sealing mat and the water-sealing layer are adapted to be water-sealing and to adhere well to tile adhesive.

2011-03-24

20110067176

Magnetic Sink Flange Retainer and Method - A support device to maintain a mounting assembly on the exterior of a sink flange engaged to a sink adapted to engage a garbage disposal. The support device employs a body portion engaged to one or a plurality of magnets. The body portion is adapted to engage with or upon the sink flange and thereby position the magnets to magnetically hold the mounting assembly upon the exterior of the sink flange.

2011-03-24

20110067177

TABLE ASSEMBLY FOR PATIENT TRANSFER DEVICE - A table assembly for a patient transfer device has upper and lower tables surrounded by belts which counter-rotate as the table assembly moves between a patient and a supporting surface such as a bed. The table assembly includes integrated means for laterally retracting side plates of the upper table while adjusting incident angles of the side plates and vertically separating the upper table from the lower table. Guide slots in end plates fixed to a slide assembly retain positioning posts attached to ends of the side plates. The slots are inclined upwardly toward a centerline of the table assembly at different angles. A crank moves the side plates using a rotating disk attached to a central frame of the upper table and linkage arms with one end pivotally attached to a peripheral region of the disk and another end pivotally attached to one of the positioning posts.

2011-03-24

20110067178

HEATING AIR MAT AND AIR MAT HEATING SYSTEM HAVING THE SAME - A heating air mat which supplies heated air into the mat to provide heat to a user, and an air mat heating system including the same are disclosed. The air mat heating system includes a heating air mat having a mat body and a heated air injection part through which the heated air is injected into the mat body, and a heater connected to the heated air injection part of the air mat to supply the heated air into the air mat. The air mat provides heat to the body of a user by supplying heated air into the air mat, thereby eliminating accidents relating to the use of electricity while ensuring good heating efficiency and to reduction of energy consumption when used for local heating and assistant heating.

2011-03-24

20110067179

Patient support apparatus - A simplify mobile patient support apparatus which is suitable for an examination of a patient by a magnetic resonance tomography system is proposed. A first and second actuation facility and a control facility are used. Depending on the operating state of the patient support apparatus whether is docked with or undocked from the magnetic resonance tomography system, actuation of the first and second actuation facilities results either in the coupling or uncoupling of the patient support apparatus to/from the magnetic resonance tomography system or the raising or lowering of a patient support plate of the patient support apparatus. Essential components for docking or undocking or for the vertical adjustment of the patient support plate are integrated in a hydraulic unit.

2011-03-24

20110067180

DEVICE FOR ASSISTING CHILDBIRTH - A device for assisting parturition, which device can be used to practise delivery, in birth training, in delivery, and in post natal and other rehabilitation. The device includes a body part and a seat part for the woman in labour. In the seat part there is a cut-out for the exit of the baby. The seat part is connected to the frame part, and in the device there are support elements which the woman in labour can grip, and on which she can lean in various delivery positions. The seat part is attached to the body in such a way that the cut-out faces away from the body and the elements for attaching to the body are between the body and the seat part. The seat part can be turned laterally relative to the body.

2011-03-24

20110067181

Baby changing table - A baby changing table having a base and a first platform connected to the base. The first platform is suitable for placing a baby thereon in a first position with the baby oriented generally across the field of view of a caregiver such that the baby's head is toward one side of the caregiver and the baby's feet are toward the other. The first platform may rotate relative to the base such that the baby may be oriented in a second position with its feet generally toward the caregiver and its head generally away from the caregiver. In certain embodiments, the first platform may be slid toward the caregiver as well as rotated. In other embodiments, there may also be provided a second platform where the second platform may slide relative to the base and the first platform may rotate relative to the second platform.

2011-03-24

20110067182

BED BUG PROOF MATTRESS - A bed-bug proof mattress comprises an inner section including filler and springs and a continuous outer layer comprised of (i) a bed bug retardant layer made of light weight interlock knit polyester laminated to a hydrophilic breathable polyurethane film, (ii) a fire retardant layer; (iii) a foam layer, the bed bug retardant layer quilted to the fire retardant layer and to the foam layer and containing a seam. The bed bug retardant layer is integrally joined to the fire retardant layer and to the foam layer by being quilted together during the manufacturing of the mattress. The bed bug retardant layer may be approximately one mil thick. The interlock knit provides few places for dust accumulation and the film may act as a barrier for bed bugs. Although the film may be hydrophilic to increases the user's comfort, it may be without pores or even micropores so that it can act as an effective barrier.

2011-03-24

20110067183

CUSHIONING DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING - A cushioning device with an upper foam layer and a lower positioned foam layer, with the upper foam layer having multiple thickness zones defined by different height projections from one zone to another as to provide a thickness variation pattern, one side of the upper foam layer is less contoured when not yet assembled in the cushioning device and a second side is comprised of the multiple thickness zones such that, upon connection of the multiple thickness zones to the lower positioned foam layer, the height differential along a length of the upper foam layer is transmitted as to form a non-planar, crown configuration in the upper surface of the upper foam layer. A method includes roller contouring different height and shaped projection zones including zones with different ratios of peak height to overall zone height.

2011-03-24

20110067184

LOCKING PLIERS FOR CONTROLLED MANIPULATION - An improved locking pliers is provided with an attachment member having a threaded aperture fixed on the handle of the locking pliers. In one embodiment, the attachment member is in the form of a coupling nut or other extended wide nut welded to the handle. In another embodiment, the attachment member is integrally formed as part of the handle during the manufacture of the pliers. In another embodiment, the attachment member is concentrically attached to the end of the handle so that a pulling, pushing or twisting force is applied along the plane of the handle without torque. The attachment member does not interfere with the normal locking operation or any other normal operation of the pliers. In another embodiment, a quick connection attachment member, such as a locking pin or quick disconnect joint, is used in place of a threaded portion.

2011-03-24

20110067185

WASHING METHOD AND WASHING MACHINE - A washing method and a washing machine are provided. Wash water is drained from a tub prior to initiating a main spinning process, and wash water is supplied into a drum to decrease the volume of the laundry which is increased by the draining. Therefore, it is possible to effectively reduce the volume of laundry and thus to improve the mobility of the laundry. Then, a main spinning process is performed by spinning the drum at high speed.

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH - An electric toothbrush includes a handle housing a motor and a drive shaft. A brushing member includes a base removably secured to the handle. The base supports at least two brushes, each configured to rotate about separate axes, and at least one input shaft operatively coupling the drive shaft to the brushes. In one example, the handle includes an articulateable joint operatively connected to the brushing member and configured to permit the axes to cant relative to the handle.

MUSICAL TOOTHBRUSH FOR CHILDREN THAT PLAYS FUN MELODIES AND GLOWS WHILE BRUSHING - An elongated toothbrush handle of translucent material having a plurality of bristles located at a first end, and a water tight chamber located between the first end and a second ends. A processor, sound generating means, first and second light emitting means having different colors, a source of power; and switch means are located in the chamber. In operation, the translucent handle glows with the color of the light emitting means energized for a specific interval of time and a digital sound chip plays children melodies. At the end of the specific interval of time the first light emitting means is turned off and the second light emitting means is energized while the children melodies continue to play.

2011-03-24

20110067190

TOOTH SHADE INDICATOR APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING TOOTH SHADE - An apparatus for monitoring tooth whitening treatments and status is shown in the form of a toothbrush with at least one panel with a scale of whiteness indicators. Whiteness indicia can be a removable or permanent insert disposed in a slot in the head, body or handle of a transparent toothbrush or an inlay in the surface of the brush. Other information such as appointment times, dentist information, instructions and images can be placed on the inserts. Comparison of the indicia with the teeth allows the user to evaluate the progress of treatments.

2011-03-24

20110067191

Personal Hygiene Brush - A personal hygiene brush which includes a furcated end comprising cleaning heads from which bristles radiate about the outer perimeter and a non-furcated end including an additional cleaning head from which bristles radiate about the outer perimeter. The personal hygiene brush is capable of cleaning of all types of piercings, intra and extra-orally, as well as dental implants and implant supported prosthesis. The personal hygiene brush enables the user to clean around, under and through their individual ornamental body rings and rods without removing them from the body parts to which they are attached.

2011-03-24

20110067192

Teeth and gum cleaning apparatus for persons with dexterity problems, such as limited, inexperienced, uncertain and/or tremulous finger, hand and/or arm motions - The invention's head is lengthened and completely covered with bristles. The invention has a shortened handle minimizing the distance between the cleaner's hand, cuff or other apparatus used to assist with teeth cleaning, and the cleaner's teeth and gums. This invention eases the process of teeth and gum cleaning for individuals with dexterity problems, such as individuals with limited, inexperienced or uncertain finger, hand and/or arm motion. Persons will struggle less to maneuver this invention's head into a proper cleaning position and will have markedly less encounters with any hard surfaces while cleaning their teeth and gums.

2011-03-24

20110067193

Toothbrush Device - A toothbrush device having a body defining a cavity and an input port disposed on the body in fluid communication with the cavity. The input port permits brushing by-products to pass through the input port and into the cavity while restricting passage of the brushing by-products outward from the cavity. In one form, the toothbrush device includes an elongated handle with a reservoir having at least a portion disposed within the handle. The reservoir is sized to hold a predetermined amount of oral care product, and a mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the reservoir to discharge the oral care product from the reservoir.

2011-03-24

20110067194

Dental Hygiene Device - A toothbrush for brushing the bite surface and two sides of a tooth simultaneously including a handle and three brush head connected to the handle. The head assembly includes three brushes that are rotated about 3 parallel vertical axis while the assembly itself is rotatable about an angle of at least 180° so that a single brush cleans/polishes the inner surface of the teeth in the individual's mouth as the assembly is moved from one side of the individual's mouth to the other side.

2011-03-24

20110067195

Foot Care Apparatus - A foot care apparatus for efficiently cleaning, applying substances, and inspecting an individual's foot including the toes. The foot care apparatus generally includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, an attachment assembly extending from the shaft opposite the handle, wherein the attachment assembly is comprised of a threadable structure and an implement attachment for cleaning the foot of an individual and extending from the attachment assembly. The implement attachment is threadably connected to the shaft via the attachment assembly. The implement attachment may be comprised of various configurations, such as an inter digital absorbent member, a filing structure for corns and calluses, a louffa foot scrub, a sulcus cleaner, or a magnifying mirror. An extension may also be used with the shaft or the shaft may be comprised of a short structure and integral with the handle.

2011-03-24

20110067196

ROTARY MOP AND APPARATUS FOR HOLDING MOP STRIP - An apparatus for holding at least one mop strip is disclosed. The apparatus includes a body, at least one hole, and at least one elastic hook. The hole is located in the body for allowing a portion of the mop strip to pass therethrough. The elastic hook is connected to the peripheral of the hole for hooking up the mop strip.

2011-03-24

20110067197

CONVEYOR BELT SCRAPER BLADE - A scraper blade for a conveyor may comprise: a blade body having a scraping edge and a base for mounting the scraper blade on a blade mount of a conveyor, wherein the blade body has a plurality of elongated recessed features extending across the rearward side thereof, wherein the elongated recessed features are spaced apart and are generally parallel to the scraping edge. Additionally, the base of the blade body may be affixed to a scraper blade mount having a shape of a “flattened W” defining a groove that has beveled edges to provide clearance for a fillet weld of a scraper blade support bar to which the scraper blade is mountable.

2011-03-24

20110067198

BALL AND SOCKET JOINT UTILIZING A SINGLE BALL, FOR DRIVING MORE THAN ONE DRIVEN MEMBER - An articulating ball joint for connecting a pair of driven members to a driving member such as a crank pin. In one embodiment, a single ball is held in a first, or inner, socket defined by a coupling member having a convex outer surface, and the first socket is held within a second, outer, socket defined in a second coupling member also having a convex outer surface, which is, in turn, engaged by a retainer.

2011-03-24

20110067199

HINGE MENDER - An automobile hinge repair tool comprising: (a) a base having a substantially planar top surface; and, (b) a cylindrical insert extending generally perpendicularly from the base, the cylindrical insert including an outer circumferential surface extending longitudinally and having a substantially constant radial diameter, where the substantially planar top surface of the base extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical insert at least a predetermined distance and, where the cylindrical insert and the base cooperate to create an automobile hinge repair mold.

GROMMET - To provide a grommet that can be smoothly inserted into a through-hole in a vehicle body panel so that a vehicle body latch recess provided in the grommet can receive a peripheral edge around the through-hole without catching the recess by the through-hole. The grommet includes: an inner tube for passing electrical cables in the wire harness in a close contact manner; and an outer tube coupled through an annular coupling section to an outer peripheral surface of the inner tube and provided with a slant wall section. The outer tube is provided on a larger diameter end of the slant wall section with a larger thickness portion in parallel to an axial direction. An annular vehicle body latch recess is provided in an outer peripheral surface at a boundary area between the larger diameter end of the slant wall section and the larger thickness portion. The slant wall section is provided on an outer peripheral surface with a plurality of stepped projecting ribs that extend radially from a smaller diameter end of the slant wall section to the larger diameter end and are separated apart from one another in a peripheral direction. A distal end of each of the projecting ribs is disposed at a side surface end of the vehicle body latch recess. Each of the projecting ribs is provided on a stepped top surface with a first slant surface that is inclined down to the side surface end of the vehicle body latch recess, and is provided on both side surfaces with a second slant surface and a third slant surface that are inclined down from the top surface across the first slant surface. The first, second, and third slant surfaces form a three-side-cut-away portion.

2011-03-24

20110067202

TRUCKLE - A truckle includes a swiveling shaft, a rack, a driving unit received in the swivel shaft, and an arresting unit assembled with the driving unit. The swiveling shaft defines a through hole near an end thereof, and has a bearing on another end thereof. The rack has an end connecting with the bearing. The driving unit includes a rotating member corresponding to the through hole, a push member corresponding to a peripheral of the rotating member. The arresting unit includes an axis pole extending into the sleeve for assembling with the push member, a gear disc mounted on the axis pole for corresponding to the latch portion, and an arresting block mounted below the gear disc and corresponding to the wheel. The truckle either limits direction solely or limits direction and rotation simultaneously. The truckle has firm structure and can be arrested reliably.

2011-03-24

20110067203

HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR FOLDABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a cam, a follower, and an resilient member. The follower is mounted on the shaft. One end of the follower has a first cam surface. The first cam surface defines a groove. The cam is mounted on the shaft and adjacent to the follower. The cam has a second cam surface, and the second cam surface engages with the first cam surface. The second cam surface forms a protrusion, and the protrusion is received in the groove. The resilient member is placed around the shaft forcing the first cam surface to engage with the second cam surface.

2011-03-24

20110067204

Handgrip for Handlebar - A handgrip includes a tubular grip body having at least two angularly spaced-apart resilient clamp portions projecting outwardly and axially from an annular end thereof, a substantially U-shaped rod member having a bight portion, and non-threaded head and threaded end portions, and a sleeve ring sleeved around the resilient clamp portions and having first and second curved retaining grooves receiving respectively the resilient clamp portions, a head-receiving groove section receiving the non-threaded head portion, and a guide groove section receiving the threaded end portion. A nut member is disposed outwardly of the guide groove section, and engages threadedly the threaded end portion. The nut member pulls the threaded end portion when tightened so that the bight portion pushes one of the resilient clamp portions toward the other resilient clamp portion.

2011-03-24

20110067205

PAD TO PROTECT A DOOR FRAME AND TRIM FROM AN OPEN DEAD BOLT - A pad to protect a door frame and trim from an open dead bolt includes a pad, substantially including a clear, thermoplastic elastomer, adapted to cushion the bolt from the door frame; and a plate, substantially including a clear, two-sided sticky tape, to secure the device to the door frame.

2011-03-24

20110067206

Trim Panel Attachment Assembly With Anti-Rotation Flange - An attachment assembly for connecting an interior trim panel to a structural pillar of a vehicle includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion is connectable to the second connecting portion such that a first engagement structure of the first engagement portion is in engagement with a second engagement structure of the second engagement portion to secure the first connecting portion with respect to the second connecting portion. When the first and second connecting portions are connected, a base surface of the first connecting portion is in engagement with a shoulder of the second connecting portion, and a flange of the first connecting portion is in engagement with an upstanding wall of the second connecting portion to restrain movement of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion with respect to one another.

2011-03-24

20110067207

RETAINING DEVICE FOR STAND FOR SAWING MACHINE - A retaining device for a stand includes a base, a shaft inserted in the base, a handle pivotally mounted on the shaft, and a retainer sleeved on a cam portion of the handle. When the handle is pivotally moved downwards, the retainer can be driven to move toward an extending rod of the stand by actuation of the cam portion of the handle for stopping against the extending rod of the stand and retaining the extending rod of the stand in position.

2011-03-24

20110067208

FASTENING ASSEMBLY - A fastening assembly, connecting a first member and a second member, includes a fastening unit, a mounting portion, a connecting hole defined in the first member, and a mounting hole defined in the second member. The fastening unit includes a fastener and an elastic member. The fastener includes a cap and a post having a resisting portion. The mounting portion is formed on the first member and defines an opening and a sliding slot communicating with each other. The elastic member resists the mounting portion and the cap of the fastener. A part of the post passes through the connecting hole, engages with the second member and is received in the mounting portion via the opening and slidable in the sliding slot. The resisting portion retains the part of the post within the mounting portion.

Ratchet Tie-Down and Reinforcement Assembly - A ratchet tie-down includes a frame, a lever including two cams pivotally connected to the frame, a reeling device rotatably mounted on the frame and lever, and a ratcheting device including two ratchet wheels mounted on the reeling device. The ratchet tie-down further includes a reinforcement assembly including two reinforcement members mounted on the reeling device. Each ratchet wheel includes two lateral sides disposed between one cam and one reinforcement member. Each reinforcement member defines an annular surface in contact with one lateral side of one ratchet wheel, and with the reinforcement member imposing an urging force in a direction perpendicular to a rotation direction of the ratchet wheel.

2011-03-24

20110067211

Universal Lace / Cord Lock System - A cord locking system is provided that allows a user to easily, rapidly, and effectively lock/unlock a lace in one single-handed, swift motion. The locking device includes a pair of arms that can freely rotate around a swivel point within a base that lock teeth against the lace by using compression forces controlled by a spring. The arrangement of the arms protrude outside the base for easy engagement/disengagement, with a mechanical advantage using leverage to reduce the required forces to act against the spring force at the teeth. The arms are configured in a curved scissors-like handle for an easy swift grasp contoured to the shape of your fingers with a single-handed motion. The most basic application is in outdoor sports, such as snowboarding. A snowboard rider can easily lock the boot laces with a swift motion and just as easily disengage the locking device under harsh, frozen, winter conditions while wearing gloves. Each boot would include a pull tool on the end of the boot lace with each side of the lace running through the assembled locking device. To disengage the locking mechanism, lift two fingers upward so that the teeth open and allow the device to slide up and down the laces toward the preferred location. To lock, press the arms toward the base to tighten further into position and then let go of the locking device allowing the spring to maintain the locked position.

2011-03-24

20110067212

Memorialization Casket - A casket having provision for displaying a photograph, the photograph having a pair of opposite side edges, comprises a casket shell adapted to receive the remains of a deceased and having a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls, and a bottom wall, a casket cap closable on the casket shell, the cap including a dish assembly mounted to an underside thereof, the dish assembly including a cap panel, the cap panel including at least one pair of opposed retention members sized and configured to receive and retain the pair of opposite side edges of the photograph for display of the photograph when the cap is in an open position.

HIGH COMFORT MATTRESSES HAVING FIBERBALLS - In one embodiment, a mattress is constructed of a core having a first side and a second side. A padding layer is positioned at the first side of the core and has a contoured surface and a planar surface. A layer of individual fiberballs is disposed on the planar surface of the padding layer.

GLOVE PORT RETROFIT ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF REPLACING COMPONENTS - What is disclosed is a system for retrofitting a sealed enclosure for performing work therein having an outer enclosure assembly configured to be clamped to the outer annular face of a port ring and form a sealed engagement with the outer annular surface of the port ring, a change assembly having an inner ring and an access element wherein the inner ring has a first annular cylinder body that is sized to be slidably received by the port ring and the access element is configured to be sealably and slidably positioned within the first annular cylinder body of the inner ring.

2011-03-24

20110067218

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR EXCHANGING ROLLER BATTERIES - A method and a device for exchanging roller batteries on supports of cableway installations, include driving a service vehicle towards the support, lifting a cable which runs on the roller battery from the roller battery, then dismounting the roller battery and installing a new roller battery and finally relaying the cable on the roller battery.

2011-03-24

20110067219

METAL PLATE MEMBER FIXATION DEVICE INSTALLATION METHOD - A metal plate member fixation device installation method includes the step of preparing a barrel, the step of bonding the barrel to one of two metal plate members to be affixed by a reflow soldering process, the step of providing a screw member and a cap and coupling the screw member and the cap tightly together, the step of preparing a spring member and sleeving the spring member onto the shank of the screw member and then inserting the screw member and the spring member into the barrel at the metal plate member, the step of axially slidably coupling the cap to the barrel to let the spring member be stopped between a step in the barrel and a part of the shoulder of the screw member, and the step of releasing the pressure from the cap to finish the installation.

2011-03-24

20110067220

METHOD OF TERMINATING A STRANDED SYNTHETIC FILAMENT CABLE - A method for straightening, constraining, cutting and terminating a multi-stranded, non-parallel cable. The cable filaments are aligned. A binder is then applied to the cable to maintain the alignment. The cable is then cut to a desired length. Each strand or group of strands is then placed in an individual termination. Each individual termination is then attached—either directly or through intermediate devices—to a collector.

2011-03-24

20110067221

DRAPERY ROD BRACKET - The bracket comprises a support arm that can be mounted to either a vertical surface such as a wall or a horizontal surface such as a ceiling. A rod supporting member such as a ring or hook is removably attached to the arm and is adapted to receive and support a drapery rod. The rod supporting member can be removed from the support arm and attached directly to a surface to provide an inside mount for the rod. A separate mounting clip may be used to mount the rod supporting member to the surface. the mounting clip may be provided with a rod engaging element for centering the rod and a surface engaging element for fixing the position of the rod supporting member on the surface.

2011-03-24

20110067222

STRIKER ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A FIREARM - A striker assembly for a firearm and a method of assembly the striker assembly is disclosed. The method includes providing a generally cylindrical body having a first distal end, a middle portion, and a second distal end, sliding a coaxial spring onto the middle portion from the second distal end toward the first distal end, sliding a spacer having a first side and a second side from the second distal end toward the first distal end, sliding a snap ring from the second distal end toward the first distal end, and sliding a cap over the second distal end of the body, the spacer, and the snap ring.